Overview

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys. It is the most common inherited disorder of the kidneys. Symptoms usually develop between the ages of 30 and 40, but they can begin earlier, even in childhood. The most common symptoms are pain in the back and the sides and headaches. Other symptoms include liver and pancreatic cysts, urinary tract infections, abnormal heart valves, high blood pressure, kidney stones, brain aneurysms, and diverticulosis. About 90 percent of all cases of polycystic kidney disease (PKD) are inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion. Although there is no cure for ADPKD, treatment can ease symptoms and prolong life.[1]

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Basic Information

Genetics Home Reference (GHR) contains information on Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. This website is maintained by the National Library of Medicine.

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The National Human Genome Research Institute's (NHGRI) mission encompasses a broad range of studies aimed at understanding the structure and function of the human genome and its role in health and disease. Click on the link to view the information page on this topic.

The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) is a federation of more than 130 nonprofit voluntary health organizations serving people with rare disorders. Click on the link to view information on this topic.

General Information

Medscape Reference has two articles on this topic from the perspective of Nephrology and Radiology. You may need to register to view the information online, but registration is free.

In Depth Information

Medscape Reference has two articles on this topic from the perspective of Nephrology and Radiology. You may need to register to view the information online, but registration is free.

Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) is a catalog of human genes and genetic disorders. Each entry has a summary of related medical articles. It is meant for health care professionals and researchers. OMIM is maintained by Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

Orphanet is a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Access to this database is free of charge.

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